Brad Underwood has some new faces on the roster for the upcoming season. 247Sports’ Jeremy Werner posted what Underwood said about 3 of his players.

Terrence Shannon Jr. has been impressing since he transferred over from Texas Tech. Underwood highlighted Shannon as someone who was brought on party because of how he is as a leader.

“It’s why we brought him,” Underwood stated.

Shannon averaged 10.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2 assists last season for the Red Raiders. He joined the Illinois basketball program back in April. Shannon brings a lot of height with his 6-foot-6, 210 pound frame.

Other players that have impressed Underwood with their leadership have been Ty Rodgers and Luke Goode.

Rodgers recently joined the program from the 2022 recruiting class. Goode looks to improve on his numbers after appearing in 28 games last season.

Illinois finished with a 23-10 record in 2021. The Fighting Illini’s season starts on Nov. 7 with Eastern Illinois.